Ebony-Brown Lacquer Vase with Bamboo Inlay

This is a particularly well-made lacquer vase, probably produced in Southeast Asia in the late 1990s for the European designer market. Its use of bamboo inlay and high-gloss lacquer clearly draws on the work of Paris-based designers R&Y Augousti. The lacquer is a deep ebony brown rather than black, becoming warmer and more reflective as the light changes. Cross-sections of bamboo have been cut and individually set into the lacquer. The circles vary naturally in size and are spaced across the round form rather than used as a regular repeated pattern. One of the larger rings contains a deliberate C-shaped section. This may be connected to the maker, although I have been unable to identify it. There is some surface wear to the lacquer, with rubbing around the mouth and base and fine lines around several of the bamboo sections. Please refer to the photographs. This is a decorative vase suitable for dried or artificial flowers and should not be filled with water. Height 30 cm. Mouth diameter 15.5 cm. Base diameter 9 cm. Collector’s Note: The technique comes from Southeast Asian lacquerwork and was used particularly effectively by R&Y Augousti during the late 20th century. This vase is not attributed to the company, but it belongs to the same design tradition. It is difficult work: every bamboo section must be cut and positioned individually, then made completely level before the successive layers of lacquer are sanded and polished. Worldwide Shipping: We are always happy to ship worldwide. Your piece will be packed with great care and sent tracked.